Pressure modulator

ABSTRACT

An apparatus and associated method, for controlling signal passage, includes a first passageway for a first fluid, a second passageway for a second fluid, and an interposed chamber. A first, movable diaphragm at a first chamber junction and a second, movable diaphragm at a second chamber junction, with a third fluid bound there between and interposed between the first and second passageways. A device varies a volume of the third fluid bound between the diaphragms and thus moves the diaphragms. A movable member and a reservoir of the device are configured such that the movable member is sufficiently movable to increase the volume of the reservoir to remove a sufficient portion of the third fluid bound between the first and second diaphragms from the chamber to cause the first and second diaphragms to be pressed against the first and second walls, respectively.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a Continuation of, and benefit of priority isclaimed from, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/551,296, filed on Nov.24, 2014, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Disclosed Subject Matter

The disclosed subject matter relates to an apparatus for controllingtransmission of a fluid pressure signal.

Discussion of Prior Art

Within certain environments or other situations, it may be desirable toisolate fluid(s) that contains/conveys a signal (e.g., a pressuresignal). For example, isolating a signal receiving device or fluidassociated with such a device from contamination, chemical attack, etc.that could be result from contact with certain fluids may be beneficial.Such may occur for various environments or other situations, such asunder water drilling, and/or hydrocarbon (e.g., oil, gas) extraction,processing, transport, etc. Within certain environments or othersituations, it may be desirable to control (e.g., isolate/block/pass)conveyance of a signal contained within a fluid. It is furtherappreciated that within certain environments or other situations it maybe desirable to control conveyance of multiple signals contained withinmultiple fluids. Still further, it is appreciated that within certainenvironments or other situations it may be desirable to controlconveyance of multiple signals contained within multiple fluids, whilemaintaining isolation of the multiple fluids.

One example environment/situation concerns a pressure sensor unit foruse preferably in under water plants for transport and processing ofhydrocarbon streams, particularly in connection with “Christmas treedevices” on the sea floor. Pressure measurements are necessary on manydifferent points in such plants.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSED SUBJECT MATTER

The following summary presents a simplified summary in order to providea basic understanding of some aspects of the arrangements and/or methodsdiscussed herein. This summary is not an extensive overview of thearrangements and/or methods discussed herein. It is not intended toidentify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of sucharrangements and/or methods. Its sole purpose is to present someconcepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detaileddescription that is presented later.

In accordance with one aspect, the disclosed subject matter provides anapparatus for controlling passage of a pressure signal. The apparatusincludes a first passageway for a first fluid therein and a secondpassageway for a second fluid therein. The apparatus includes a chamberinterposed between the first and second passageways. The chamber ispartially bounded by a first wall adjacent a junction of the firstpassageway to the chamber and a second wall adjacent a junction of thesecond passageway to the chamber. The first wall is contoured as aconvex shape with regard to the chamber and the second wall is contouredas a convex shape with regard to the chamber. The apparatus includes afirst, movable diaphragm located across a junction of the firstpassageway and the chamber. The first diaphragm is movable to pluralpositions including a position with the first diaphragm pressed againstthe first wall. The apparatus includes a second, movable diaphragmlocated across a junction of the second passageway and the chamber. Thesecond diaphragm is movable to plural positions including a positionwith the second diaphragm pressed against the second wall. The apparatusincludes a third fluid. The first and second diaphragms bound the thirdfluid there between and are interposed between the first and secondpassageways at the chamber. The apparatus includes a device for varyinga volume of the third fluid bound between the first and seconddiaphragms and interposed between the first and second passageways atthe chamber. A variation of the volume of the third fluid moves thefirst and second diaphragms. The device includes a movable member and areservoir in fluid communication with the third fluid bound between thefirst and second diaphragms. The movable member is movable to vary thevolume of the reservoir. The movable member and the reservoir areconfigured such that the movable member is sufficiently movable toincrease the volume of the reservoir to remove a sufficient portion ofthe third fluid bound between the first and second diaphragms from thechamber to cause the first and second diaphragms to be pressed againstthe first and second walls, respectively.

In accordance with one aspect, the disclosed subject matter provides amethod for controlling passage of a pressure signal. The method includesproviding an apparatus for controlling passage of a pressure signal. Theapparatus includes a first passageway for a first fluid therein and asecond passageway for a second fluid therein. The apparatus includes achamber interposed between the first and second passageways. The chamberis partially bounded by a first wall adjacent a junction of the firstpassageway to the chamber and a second wall adjacent a junction of thesecond passageway to the chamber. The first wall is contoured as aconvex shape with regard to the chamber and the second wall is contouredas a convex shape with regard to the chamber. The apparatus includes afirst, movable diaphragm located across a junction of the firstpassageway and the chamber. The first diaphragm is movable to pluralpositions including a position with the first diaphragm pressed againstthe first wall. The apparatus includes a second, movable diaphragmlocated across a junction of the second passageway and the chamber. Thesecond diaphragm is movable to plural positions including a positionwith the second diaphragm pressed against the second wall. The apparatusincludes a third fluid. The first and second diaphragms bound the thirdfluid there between and are interposed between the first and secondpassageways at the chamber. The apparatus includes a device for varyinga volume of the third fluid bound between the first and seconddiaphragms and interposed between the first and second passageways atthe chamber. A variation of the volume of the third fluid moves thefirst and second diaphragms. The device includes a movable member and areservoir in fluid communication with the third fluid bound between thefirst and second diaphragms. The movable member is movable to vary thevolume of the reservoir. The method includes moving the movable membersufficiently to increase the volume of the reservoir to remove asufficient portion of the third fluid bound between the first and seconddiaphragms from the chamber to cause the first and second diaphragms tobe pressed against the first and second walls, respectively.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other aspects of the disclosed subject matter willbecome apparent to those skilled in the art to which the subject matterrelates upon reading the following description with reference to theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an example apparatus forcontrolling passage of a pressure signal in accordance with an aspect ofthe disclosed subject matter, and showing the apparatus in a firstoperational condition;

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration similar to FIG. 1, but showing theapparatus in a second operational condition;

FIGS. 3 and 4 are schematic illustrations similar to FIGS. 1 and 2, andshow one schematic example of a device for varying a volume within theapparatus;

FIGS. 5 and 6 are schematic illustrations similar to FIGS. 3 and 4, butshow another example apparatus for controlling passage of a pressuresignal in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter;

FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of an example multi-signal controlapparatus for controlling passage of two pressure signals in accordancewith another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, and showing theapparatus in a first operational condition; and

FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration similar to FIG. 7, but showing theapparatus in a second operational condition.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSED SUBJECT MATTER

Example embodiments that incorporate one or more aspects of thedisclosed subject matter are described and illustrated in the drawings.These illustrated examples are not intended to be a limitation. Forexample, one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter can beutilized in other embodiments and even other types of devices. Moreover,certain terminology is used herein for convenience and ease ofidentification only and is not to be taken as a limitation on thedisclosed subject matter. For example, the terms first, second, etc. areused for convenience and ease of identification only. Still further, inthe drawings, the same reference numerals are employed for designatingthe same elements.

An example of an apparatus 10 for controlling passage of a fluidpressure signal 12 is schematically shown within FIG. 1. The control ofpassage of a fluid pressure signal can be considered as pressuremodulation. As such, the apparatus 10 can be considered to be a pressuremodulator.

The fluid pressure signal 12 indicates/conveys fluid pressureinformation. The pressure information may itself be anindication/conveyance of information. The fluid pressure signal 12 canvary over time. It is to be appreciated that the fluid pressure signal12 is itself schematically represented via the arrowhead with FIG. 1.The fluid pressure signal is within a first fluid 14. The first fluid 14can be any fluid such as oil, hydraulic fluid, water, such as sea water,etc. The specifics of the first fluid 14 need not be specificlimitations upon the present disclosed subject matter. The first fluid14 is with a first passageway 16.

In general, the first passageway 16 is any structure that is in fluidconnection with a source (not shown, but referenced via text withinFIG. 1) that provides the pressure signal 12 within the first fluid 14within the first passageway 16. The first passageway 16 may includepiping, conduit, portals, etc. The specifics of the first passageway 16can be varied and need not be specific limitations upon the disclosedsubject matter. The pressure signal source may be anything that providesthe pressure signal 12 within the first fluid 14 within the firstpassageway 16. For example, the pressure signal source may be associatedwith a sensing element within an undersea oil drilling and/or extractionarrangement. As another example, the pressure signal source may beassociated with an undersea pressure sensor. Also, the pressure signalsource may be anything (i.e., oil, water, such as sea water, etc.) thatitself provides pressure as the pressure signal.

The provided control is selective control of passage of the fluidpressure signal 12 to a second fluid 24 within a second passageway 26.In general, the second passageway 26 is any structure that is in fluidconnection with a pressure signal destination (not shown, but referencedvia text within FIG. 1). The second passageway 26 may include piping,conduit, portals, etc. The specifics of the second passageway 26 can bevaried and need not be specific limitations the disclosed subjectmatter. The pressure signal destination may be anything that is intendedto receive the pressure signal 12 and need not be a specific limitationupon the disclosed subject matter. For example, the pressure signaldestination may be associated with one or more components that areinvolved with sensing, recording, measuring, comparing, processing, etc.information about the pressure. The specifics of the second fluid 24need not be specific limitation upon the disclosed subject matter. Asexamples, the second fluid 24 may be oil, hydraulic fluid, water,glycerol, etc.

A body 28 (schematically shown) has a chamber 30 of the apparatus 10,and the chamber is provided to be interposed between the first andsecond passageways 16, 26. The body 28 can be any structure,construction, material, etc. and need not be a specific limitation. Atleast a portion of the chamber 30 is in fluid communication within thefirst passageway 16 at a first junction 32. Also, at least a portion ofthe chamber 30 is in fluid communication within the second passageway 26at a second junction 34. In one specific example, the portion of thechamber 30 in fluid communication within the first passageway 16 isdifferent from the portion of the chamber in fluid communication withinthe second passageway 26. The specific size, shape, etc. of the chamber30 need not be specific limitations.

A first, movable diaphragm 40 of the apparatus 10 is located within thechamber 30. Specifically, the first diaphragm 40 is located across thejunction 32 (i.e., the first junction) of the first passageway 16 andthe chamber 30. The first fluid 14 engages one side of the firstdiaphragm 40.

The first diaphragm 40 is movable to plural positions. Specifically, thefirst diaphragm 40 is movable between a first position, which is shownwithin FIG. 1, to a second position, which is shown within FIG. 2. Inone specific example, the first diaphragm 40 is at least partiallyflexible to move. However, is it to be appreciated that the firstdiaphragm 40 may be otherwise movable (i.e., non-flexing movement).Within one example, the first diaphragm 40 is solid/non-permeable so asto prevent fluid movement past/through the first diaphragm.

Within one example, the chamber 30 is partially bounded by a first wall42 at/adjacent to the first junction 32 (i.e., the connection of thefirst passageway 16 into the chamber). The first wall 42 has a shape,and the shape may be varied. The shape is such that when the firstdiaphragm 40 is in the second position (FIG. 2), the first diaphragm isin engagement with the first wall 42. The engagement may be fullengagement or partial engagement. Within one example, with the firstdiaphragm 40 in engagement with the first wall 42, an end of the firstpassageway 16 is adjacent a middle portion of the first diaphragm, butthe first diaphragm is in a blocking position.

Within one example, the shape of the first wall 42, and thus also theshape of the first diaphragm 40 engaged there against when in the secondposition (FIG. 2), is of contoured/curved shape. Within one specificexample, the first wall 42 is contoured, and the contouring is sphericalor spheroid (e.g., sphere-like but not perfectly spherical, such asgenerated by revolution of an ellipse about its major axis), toric orsimilar. Within other examples, the contouring can include a series ofsegments that each can be curved or flat to provide a general sphericalor spheroid shape.

A second, movable diaphragm 50 of the apparatus 10 is located within thechamber 30. Specifically, the second diaphragm 50 is located across thejunction 34 (i.e., the second junction) of the second passageway 26 andthe chamber 30. The second fluid 24 engages one side of the seconddiaphragm 50.

The second diaphragm 50 is movable to plural positions. Specifically,the second diaphragm 50 is movable between a first position, which isshown within FIG. 1, to a second position, which is shown within FIG. 2.In one specific example, the second diaphragm 50 is at least partiallyflexible to move. However, is it to be appreciated that the seconddiaphragm 50 may be otherwise movable (i.e., non-flexing movement).Within one example, the second diaphragm 50 is solid/non-permeable so asto prevent fluid movement past/through the second diaphragm.

Within the one example, the chamber 30 is partially bounded by a secondwall 52 at/adjacent the second junction 34 (i.e., the connection of thesecond passageway into the chamber). The second wall 52 has a shape, andthe shape may be varied. The shape is such that when the seconddiaphragm 50 is in the second position (FIG. 2), the second diaphragm isin engagement with the second wall 52. The engagement may be fullengagement or partial engagement. Within one example, with the seconddiaphragm 50 in engagement with the second wall 52, an end of the secondpassageway 26 is adjacent a middle portion of the second diaphragm, butthe second diaphragm is in a blocking position.

Within one specific example, the second wall 52 is contoured, and thecontouring is spherical or spheroid (e.g., sphere-like but not perfectlyspherical, such as generated by revolution of an ellipse about its majoraxis), toric or similar. Within other examples, the contouring caninclude a series of segments that each can be curved or flat to providea general spherical or spheroid shape.

Beyond movability and wall engagement, the specifics (e.g., material,size, shape, etc.) of the first and second diaphragms 40 and 50 need notbe specific limitations.

The first and second diaphragms 40 and 50 are spaced from each otherwithin the chamber 30 so as to bound a volume V there between and withinthe chamber. A third fluid 54 is located within the volume V boundbetween the first and second diaphragms 40, 50. As such, the third fluid54 is within the chamber 30, and the chamber houses the third fluid.Moreover, the third fluid 54 is interposed between the first and secondpassageways 16, 26 at the chamber 30. So, the first and third fluids 14,54 engage respective sides of the first diaphragm 40, and the second andthird fluids 24, 54 engage respective sides of the second diaphragm 50.

The third fluid 54 can be any fluid such as oil, hydraulic fluid, water,etc. In one specific example, the third fluid 54 is nearlyincompressible. In one example, the third fluid 54 fills the volume V.As such, the volume V itself and the volume of the third fluid 54 thatfills the volume can be considered to be the same.

It is to be appreciated that in view of the movability of the first andsecond diaphragms 40, 50, the size of the volume V bound there betweenis variable. Specifically, the size of the volume V varies incorrelation to the amount of the third fluid 54 within the chamber 30.Of course, the first and second diaphragms 40, 50 move in a relationshipto the volume of the third fluid 54 there between.

The apparatus 10 includes a device 60 for varying/changing (e.g., ΔV)the volume V of the third fluid 54 bound between the first and seconddiaphragms 40, 50 and interposed between the first and secondpassageways 16, 26 at the chamber 30. A variation ΔV of the volume V ofthe third fluid 54 can move the first and second diaphragms 40, 50. Thedevice 60 for varying ΔV the volume V of the third fluid 54 can be anydevice to add/subtract from the volume of the third fluid within thechamber. Such may be done via pumping fluid from/to a fluid reservelocated outside of the chamber 30, applying varying pressure to thefluid reserve, applying pressure/vacuum to the fluid reserve to movefluid, etc. The specifics of the device 60 for varying ΔV the volume Vof the third fluid 54 bound between the first and second diaphragms 40,50 need not be specific limitations.

As mentioned, the variation/change ΔV of fluid volume V of the thirdfluid 54 within the chamber 30 can be associated with movement of thefirst and second diaphragms 40, 50. For example, FIG. 1 shows a firstvolume V of the third fluid 54 within the chamber 30. As mentioned, thefirst and second diaphragms 40, 50 are each at a respective firstposition within FIG. 1. FIG. 2 shows a second, different (i.e., greater)volume V of the third fluid 54 within the chamber 30. As mentioned, thefirst and second diaphragms 40, 50 are each at a respective secondposition within FIG. 2. So, within the shown example, the change ΔV ofvolume V of the third fluid 54 from the first volume amount to thesecond volume amount (i.e., an increase in volume) causes a change fromthe first position (FIG. 1) to the second position (FIG. 2) for both ofthe first and second diaphragms 40, 50.

For each of the first and second diaphragms 40, 50, when the respectivediaphragm is not against the associated wall 42, 52 of the chamber 30(e.g., each respectively in the first position or similar as shownwithin FIG. 1), the respective diaphragm can be considered to beun-damped. By that, each respective diaphragm 40, 50 can slightly move(e.g., vibrate, flutter, etc.). Such slight movement can be caused bysignals traveling within the fluids that engage against the respectivediaphragm. Recall that the first and third fluids 14, 54 engagerespective sides of the first diaphragm 40, and the second and thirdfluids 24, 54 engage respective sides of the second diaphragm 50.

When a slight movement caused by a signal (e.g., 12) traveling withinone fluid (e.g., 14) engaged against a respective diaphragm (e.g., 40)occurs, the slight movement is transmitted to the other fluid (e.g., 54)engaged against that respective diaphragm (e.g., 40). Such can bereferred to as transmission of the signal (e.g., 12). For example, apressure signal within one of the fluids that engages against therespective diaphragm can be transmitted through the respective diaphragmto the other engaging fluid as a pressure signal. For the firstdiaphragm 40, the fluids that engage against the diaphragm are the firstfluid 14 and the third fluid 54. So, a pressure signal 12 that is withinthe first fluid 14 can be transmitted to the third fluid 54 via theun-damped first diaphragm 40. For the second diaphragm 50 the fluidsthat engage against the diaphragm are the third fluid 54 and the secondfluid 24. So, a pressure signal that is within the third fluid 54 can betransmitted to the second fluid 24 via the un-damped second diaphragm50. As just mentioned, a pressure signal 12 can be present in the thirdfluid 54 via transmission from the first fluid 14 via the firstdiaphragm 40. So, as schematically illustrated via the second arrowheadin FIG. 1, the pressure signal 12 is transmitted to the second fluid 24and can progress toward the pressure signal destination.

For each of the first and second diaphragms 40, 50, when the respectivediaphragm is against the associated wall 42, 52 of the chamber 30 (i.e.,each respectively in the second, blocking position as shown within FIG.2), the respective diaphragm can be considered to be damped. By that,each respective diaphragm 40, 50 is prevented/stifled from the slightmovement (e.g., vibration, flutter, etc. is prevented/stifled). Suchprevented/stifled movement can be caused by the volume V of the thirdfluid 54 pressing the respective diaphragm 40, 50 against the respectivewall 42, 52 of the chamber 30. Signals (e.g., 12) traveling within thefluids (e.g., 14) that engage against the respective diaphragm (e.g.,40) cannot cause the above-discussed slight movement. So, there is notransmission of the signal (e.g., 12) through the respective diaphragm(e.g., 40). For example, a pressure signal (e.g., 12) within one of thefluids (e.g., 14) that engages against the respective diaphragm (e.g.,40) is not transmitted through the respective diaphragm to the otherengaging fluid (e.g., 54). The pressure signal (e.g., 12) is prohibitedfrom passage (e.g., blocked) and does not go from one adjacent fluid(e.g., 14) to the other adjacent fluid (e.g., 54). So, a pressure signal12 that is within the first fluid 14 is not transmitted to the thirdfluid 54.

Accordingly, each of the first and second diaphragms 40, 50 has at leastone position (e.g., the respective first position, see FIG. 1) thatpermits passage of the pressure signal 12. Also, each of the first andsecond diaphragms 40, 50 has at least one position (e.g., the respectivesecond position, see FIG. 2) that prohibits (e.g., blocks) passage ofthe pressure signal 12.

It is to be recalled that the chamber 30, and the first and seconddiaphragms 40, 50 located therein, are located to be interposed betweenthe first and second passageways 16, 26. So, the first and seconddiaphragms 40, 50 has at least one position (e.g., the respective firstposition, FIG. 1, there could be multiple positions) that permitstransmission or passage of the pressure signal 12 between the firstfluid 14 in the first passageway 16 and the second fluid 24 in thesecond passageway 26 through the third fluid 54 bound between the firstand second diaphragms 40, 50. See that within FIG. 1 this transmissionor passage is schematically represented via the first arrowhead thatproceeds in the first passageway 16 and the second arrowhead thatproceeds in the second passageway 26.

Also, each of the first and second diaphragms 40, 50 has at least oneposition (e.g., the respective second position, FIG. 2, there could bemultiple positions) that prohibits passage of the pressure signal 12between the first fluid 14 in the first passageway 16 and the secondfluid 24 in the second passageway 26 through the third fluid 54 boundbetween the first and second diaphragms 40, 50. See that within FIG. 2this prohibited passage is schematically represented via the singlearrowhead that proceeds in the first passageway 16, but there is a lackof a second arrowhead that proceeds in the second passageway 26 (i.e.,the pressure signal did not proceed into the second fluid 24 within thesecond passageway).

It is possible to consider the apparatus 10 as a fluid signal (e.g.,fluid pressure signal) transistor. The third fluid 54, which is locatedbetween the first and second diaphragms 40, 50 within the chamber 30,selectively controls the passage of the signal 12 (e.g., pressuresignal) between the first fluid 14 in the first passageway 16 and thesecond fluid 24 in the second passageway 26. The selective control isvia variation of the third fluid volume V.

It is to be appreciated that the shown example could also be for apotential signal proceeding in the opposite direction (e.g., from thesecond fluid 24 within the second passageway 26 to the first fluid 14within the first passageway 16). In other words, a signal proceeds fromright to left within FIGS. 1 and 2. As such, the apparatus could provideselective control of the passage of such a signal (e.g., pressuresignal) from the second fluid 24 in the second passageway 26 to thefirst fluid 14 in the first passageway 16.

As mentioned, the device 60 for varying (e.g., ΔV) the volume V of thethird fluid 54 bound between the first and second diaphragms 40, 50 andinterposed between the first and second passageways 16, 26 at thechamber 30 can be any device to add/subtract from the volume of thethird fluid within the chamber 30. FIGS. 3 and 4 schematically show somefurther details of one example. The example device 60 has a reservoir 62that is in fluid connection with the third fluid 54 within the chamber30 located between the first and second diaphragms 40, 50. As such thereservoir 62 also contains the third fluid 54. Within the reservoir 62,a member 66 (e.g., a piston, bladder, etc.) can move (compare FIGS. 3and 4) to displace fluid with regard to the reservoir 62. Specifically,FIG. 4 shows that the member 66 has moved relative to a position of themember shown within FIG. 3. FIG. 4 shows the previous position from FIG.3 via a phantom dash line for comparison reference.

The displacement of fluid relative to the reservoir 62 will flow to/fromthe volume V within the chamber 30 between the first and seconddiaphragms 40, 50. As can be seen within FIG. 3, the amount of the thirdfluid 54 within the reservoir 62 via a first position of the member 66is such that the first and second diaphragms 40, 50 are in theirreceptive first positions. FIG. 4 shows that the member 66 within thereservoir 62 has been moved from the first position (represented by thedash lines in FIG. 4) to the second, different position. The movementhas displaced some of the third fluid 54 out of the reservoir 62 andinto the volume V (i.e., variable volume) between the two diaphragms 40,50 within the chamber 30. As such, the diaphragms 40, 50 have been movedto their respective second positions.

As mentioned, the specific size, shape, etc. of the chamber 30 need notbe specific limitations. Also as mentioned, the specifics of the firstand second diaphragms 40, 50 need not be specific limitations. FIGS. 5and 6, present an example apparatus 10′ that illustrates such aspects.As a comparison, note that within FIGS. 1-4, the presented chamber 30has a general convex appearance as it is viewed in a schematiccross-section. The chamber 30 could be considered to be homogenous or ofsingular construction. Also note that the associated walls 42, 52 of thechamber 30 against which the first and second diaphragms 40, 50 canengage are concave from a view point perspective within the chamber 30.

Turning back to FIGS. 5 and 6, note structures that differ or maydiffer, but generally provide similar function, are designated withreference numerals that include a “′” (prime). Focusing upon the chamber30′, note that the chamber includes several segments. Specifically, thechamber 30′ includes a central part 70, two Tee parts 72, 74 extendingfrom the central part, and two dish parts 76, 78 that are respectivelyconnected to the two Tee parts 72, 74. The two dish parts 76, 78 areconvex when viewed from a view point perspective of the central part 70within the chamber (i.e., concave when viewed outside of the chamber).These dish parts 76, 78 are provided by walls 42′, 52′ and it is againstthese wall that the respective diaphragms 40′, 50′ can engage. It ispossible to describe the example of FIGS. 5 and 6 as having an inversionof structure when compared to the example(s) of FIGS. 1-4.

Similar to the example of FIGS. 3 and 4, the apparatus of FIGS. 5 and 6has a device 60′ for varying the volume (e.g., ΔV) that includes amoveable member 66′ (e.g., a piston, bladder, etc.) in a reservoir 62′to displace a third fluid with regard to the reservoir. Similar to theexample(s) of FIGS. 1-4, the first and second diaphragms 40′, 50′ havefirst and second positions. When the diaphragms 40′, 50′ are not againstthe associated walls 42′, 52′ of the chamber 30′ (e.g., eachrespectively in the first position as shown within FIG. 5), therespective diaphragm can be considered to be un-damped. By that, eachrespective diaphragm 40′, 50′ can slightly move (e.g., vibrate, flutter,etc.). Such slight movement can be caused by signals traveling withinthe fluids that engage against the respective diaphragm. Thus,transmission of the signal occurs. For example, a pressure signal withinone of the fluids that engages against the respective diaphragm can betransmitted through the respective diaphragm to the other engagingfluid. For the first diaphragm 40′, the fluids that engage against thediaphragm are the first fluid 14 and the third fluid 54. So, a pressuresignal that is within the first fluid 14 can be transmitted to the thirdfluid 54 via the un-damped first diaphragm 40′. For the second diaphragm50′, the fluids that engage against the diaphragm are the third fluid 54and the second fluid 24. So, a pressure signal that is within the thirdfluid 54 can be transmitted to the second fluid 24 via the un-dampedsecond diaphragm 50′. As just mentioned, a pressure signal can bepresent in the third fluid 54 via transmission from the first fluid 14via the first diaphragm 40′.

For each of the first and second diaphragms 40′, 50′ when the respectivediaphragm is against the associated wall 42′, 52′ of the chamber 30′(i.e., each respectively in the second position as shown within FIG. 6),the respective diaphragm can be considered to be damped. By that, eachrespective diaphragm 40′, 50′ is prevented/stifled from the slightmovement (e.g., vibration, flutter, etc. is prevented/stifled). Suchprevented/stifled movement can be caused by the volume of the thirdfluid 54 causing a pressing engagement of the respective diaphragm 40′,50′ against the respective wall 42′, 52′ of the chamber 30′. Signalstraveling within the fluids that engage against the respective diaphragm40′, 50′ cannot cause the slight movement. So, there is no transmissionof the signal (e.g., a pressure signal) through the respective diaphragm40′, 50′.

Such pressing of respective diaphragm 40′, 50′ against the respectivewall 42′, 52′ of the chamber 30′ can be accomplished via thedisplacement of fluid relative to the reservoir 62′ such that there isflow from/to the volume within the chamber 30′ between the first andsecond diaphragms 40′, 50′. As can be see within FIG. 5, the amount ofthe third fluid 54 within the reservoir 62′ via a first position of themember 66′ is such that the first and second diaphragms 40′, 50′ are intheir receptive first positions. FIG. 6 shows that the member 66′ withinthe reservoir 62′ has been moved from the first position (represented bythe dash lines in FIG. 6) to the second, different position. Themovement has pulled (e.g., displaced) some the third fluid 54 out of thevolume (i.e., variable volume) between the two diaphragms 40′, 50′within the chamber 30′ and into the reservoir 62′. As such, thediaphragms 40′, 50′ have been moved to their respective second (i.e.,blocking) positions against the walls 42′, 52′.

It is to be appreciated that for each presented example within FIGS.1-6, the respective apparatus is for controlling a signal (e.g.,pressure signal) passage between a first passageway and a secondpassageway. In other words, controlling transmission along a potentialsingle path or course. However, the disclosed subject matter includesthe aspect of an apparatus controlling signal (e.g., pressure signal)passage along/among more than one passageway options. In other words,along potentially more than one path or course. Alternatively oradditionally, the disclosed subject matter includes the aspect of anapparatus controlling more than one signal.

An example of such an apparatus 100 for controlling signal (e.g.,pressure signal) passage along/among more than one passageway optionsand/or controlling more than one signal is shown within FIGS. 7 and 8.The example shown with FIGS. 7 and 8 includes structures that aresimilar to the structure shown within FIGS. 1 and 2. As such, thedescription provided for the example of FIGS. 1 and 2 is generallyapplicable to the example of FIGS. 7 and 8. It should be noted that theexample of FIGS. 7 and 8 have two similar portions of such structures.As such, the description provided for the example of FIGS. 1 and 2 isgenerally applicable to two similar portions of the example of FIGS. 7and 8.

Within the example of FIGS. 7 and 8, a first passageway 116 extends froma first signal source P+. A first fluid 114 is within the firstpassageway 116. Note that a first signal S₁ (e.g., a pressure signal)can be within the first fluid 114 within the first passageway 116. Asecond passageway 126 extends to a pressure signal destination P (e.g.,a pressure sensor, detector, monitor, processor, etc.). A first chamber130 is interposed between the first and second passageways 116, 126, hasfirst and second diaphragms 140, 150 located therein and a third fluid154 between the first and second diaphragms 140, 150. Note that there isa schematically represented device 160 that controls the volume of thethird fluid 154 between the first and second diaphragms 140, 150 withinthe first chamber 130. Such device 160 will be described furtherfollowing.

In distinction from the examples of FIGS. 1-6, the example of FIGS. 7and 8 includes a third passageway 216 extending from a second signalsource P−. A fourth fluid 214 is within this third passageway 216. Notethat a second signal S₂ (e.g., a pressure signal) can be within thefourth fluid 214 within the third passageway 216. A second chamber 230is interposed between the third and second passageways 216, 126, hasthird and fourth diaphragms 240, 250 located therein and a fifth fluid254 between the third and fourth diaphragms 240, 250.

Note that within the shown example, the overall device 160 that controlsthe volume of the third fluid 154 between the first and seconddiaphragms 140, 150 within the first chamber 130 is shown to alsocontrol the volume of the fifth fluid 254 between the third and fourthdiaphragms 240, 250 within the second chamber 230. Specifically, adevice portion 160A controls the volume of the third fluid 154 betweenthe first and second diaphragms 140, 150 and a device portion 160Bcontrols the volume of the fifth fluid 254 between the third and fourthdiaphragms 240, 250. Of course, the two device portions 160A, 160B couldbe separate devices or at least considered to be separate devices.Accordingly, each could be termed to be a device (i.e., a respectivedevice for each of the third and fifth fluids).

Focusing upon the shown example, note that within the device 160, apiston is movable within a cylinder. As the piston moves, some fluid issimultaneously directed into one of the first and second chambers 130,230 and some fluid is removed from the other of the first and secondchambers. Within the shown example, there is an internal stop to limitmovement of the piston relative to the cylinder. Again such structurecould be separate devices or at least considered to be separate devices.Accordingly, each could be termed to be a device (i.e., multipledevices).

Within FIG. 7, the piston has been moved to a relatively right (asviewed within FIGS. 7 and 8). Such has simultaneously caused an increasein the volume of the fifth fluid 254 in the second chamber 230 and adecrease in the volume of the third fluid 154 in the first chamber 130.

Within the first chamber 130, the first and second diaphragms 140, 150are not against the associated walls of the first chamber and the firstand second diaphragms can be considered to be un-damped. By that, thefirst and second diaphragms 140, 150 can each slightly move (e.g.,vibrate, flutter, etc.). Such slight movement can be caused by thesignal S₁ traveling within the first fluid 114, through to the thirdfluid 154 within the first chamber 130, and through to the second fluid124 in the second passageway 126. See that with FIG. 7, the signalproceeding within the second fluid 124 in the second passageway isschematically represented to be S₁.

Within the second chamber 230, the third and fourth diaphragms 240, 250are against the associated walls of the second chamber and the third andfourth diaphragms can be considered to be damped. By that, the third andfourth diaphragms 240, 250 cannot move (e.g., vibrate, flutter, etc.).Even though there may be a signal S₂ (e.g., a pressure signal) withinthe fourth fluid 214 in the third passageway 216, the signal does notproceed through the second chamber 230, and does not proceed to thesecond fluid 124 in the second passageway 126. Again, this isschematically represented by the presence of only the first signal S₁proceeding along the second passageway 126.

Within FIG. 8, the piston has been moved to a relatively left (as viewedwithin FIGS. 7 and 8). Such has simultaneously caused an increase in thevolume of the third fluid 154 in the first chamber 130 and a decrease inthe volume of the fifth fluid 254 in the second chamber 230.

Within the first chamber 130, the first and second diaphragms 140, 150are against the associated walls of the first chamber and the first andsecond diaphragms can be considered to be damped. By that, the first andsecond diaphragms 140, 150 cannot move (e.g., vibrate, flutter, etc.).Even though there may be a signal S₁ (e.g., a pressure signal) withinthe first fluid 114 in the first passageway 116, the signal does notproceed through the first chamber 130, and does not proceed to thesecond fluid 124 in the second passageway 126.

Within the second chamber 230, the third and fourth diaphragms 240, 250are not against the associated walls of the second chamber and the thirdand fourth diaphragms can be considered to be un-damped. By that, thethird and fourth diaphragms 240, 250 can each slightly move (e.g.,vibrate, flutter, etc.). Such slight movement can be caused by thesignal S₂ traveling within the fourth fluid 214, through to the fifthfluid 254 within the second chamber 230, and through to the second fluid124 in the second passageway 126. This is schematically represented bythe presence of only the second signal S₂ proceeding along the secondpassageway 126.

Recall that the device 160 is schematically represented. To be sure, thedevice could certainly have structures that are more sophisticated thanas schematically shown. Also, recall that the device 160 can beconsidered/provided via a plurality of devices. As such, the device 160can be considered/provided to have first and second devices/portions160A and 160B that control the volume of the third fluid 154 between thefirst and second diaphragms 140, 150 and the volume of the fifth fluid254 between the third and fourth diaphragms 240, 250 as mentioned. Also,the device 160 can be considered/provided to have various otherdevices/portions. For example, the device 160 can be considered/providedto have a device/portion (e.g., a third device) that controls the firstand second devices 160A, 160B such that the volume of the third fluid154 bound between the first and second diaphragms 140, 150 andinterposed between the first and second passageways 114, 124 at thefirst chamber 130 and the volume of the fifth fluid 254 bound betweenthe third and fourth diaphragms 240, 250 and interposed between thethird and second passageways 216, 126 at the second chamber 230 arecontrolled such the pressure signal (e.g., either S₁ or S₂) from onlyone of the first fluid 114 in the first passageway 116 and the fourthfluid 214 in the third passageway 216 proceeds to the second fluid 124in the second passageway 126 at a time.

Of course, the presented examples are to be considered to be examplesand are not to be considered as limitations. Other, different, possiblymore complicated examples are contemplated and are to be considered tobe within the scope of the disclosed subject matter. For example, anapparatus with a greater (e.g., greater that one or two) number ofcontrol points (i.e., chambers with diaphragms) is within the scope ofthe disclosed subject matter.

The disclosed subject matter has been described with reference to theexample embodiments described above. Modifications and alterations willoccur to others upon a reading and understanding of this specification.Example embodiments incorporating one or more aspects of the disclosedsubject matter are intended to include all such modifications andalterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appendedclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for controlling passage of apressure signal, the apparatus comprising: a first passageway for afirst fluid therein; a second passageway for a second fluid therein; achamber interposed between the first and second passageways, the chamberbeing partially bounded by a first wall adjacent a junction of the firstpassageway to the chamber and a second wall adjacent a junction of thesecond passageway to the chamber, the first wall being contoured as aconcave shape with as viewed in cross-section and the second wall beingcontoured as a concave shape as viewed in cross-section; a first,movable diaphragm located across a junction of the first passageway andthe chamber, the first diaphragm being movable to plural positionsincluding a position with the first diaphragm pressed against the firstwall; a second, movable diaphragm located across a junction of thesecond passageway and the chamber, the second diaphragm being movable toplural positions including a position with the second diaphragm pressedagainst the second wall, the second fluid engaging one side of thesecond diaphragm; a third fluid, the first and second diaphragmsbounding the third fluid there between and interposed between the firstand second passageways at the chamber; and a device for varying a volumeof the third fluid bound between the first and second diaphragms andinterposed between the first and second passageways at the chamber, avariation of the volume of the third fluid moving the first and seconddiaphragms, the device including a movable member and a reservoir influid communication with the third fluid bound between the first andsecond diaphragms, the movable member being movable to vary the volumeof the reservoir, the movable member and the reservoir being configuredsuch that the movable member being sufficiently movable to increase thevolume of the reservoir to remove a sufficient portion of the thirdfluid bound between the first and second diaphragms from the chamber tocause the first and second diaphragms to be pressed against the firstand second walls, respectively.
 2. The apparatus as set forth withinclaim 1, wherein the apparatus is configured such that the first andsecond diaphragms being pressed against the first and second walls,respectively, prohibits passage of a pressure signal between the firstfluid in the first passageway and the second fluid in the secondpassageway through the third fluid bound between the first and seconddiaphragms.
 3. The apparatus as set forth within claim 1, wherein thesecond passageway is for connection to a pressure sensor and the secondfluid is for transmission of pressure signals to the pressure sensor viathe second passageway.
 4. The apparatus as set forth within claim 3,wherein the apparatus controls passage of a plurality of pressuresignals.
 5. The apparatus as set forth within claim 1, wherein each ofthe first and second diaphragms is at least partially flexible.
 6. Theapparatus as set forth within claim 5, wherein each of the first andsecond diaphragms is flexible.
 7. The apparatus as set forth withinclaim 1, wherein the first wall is contoured as a spheroid shape and thesecond wall is contoured as a spheroid shape.
 8. The apparatus as setforth within claim 7, wherein each of the first and second diaphragmsare configured to conform to the shape of the respective first andsecond walls when the first and second diaphragms are pressed againstthe first and second walls, respectively.
 9. The apparatus as set forthwithin claim 7, wherein each of the first and second diaphragms areconfigured have a shape other than the shape of the respective first andsecond walls when the first and second diaphragms are not pressedagainst the first and second walls, respectively.
 10. The apparatus asset forth within claim 1, wherein the movable member of the deviceincludes a piston.
 11. The apparatus as set forth within claim 1,wherein the movable member of the device includes a bladder.
 12. Theapparatus as set forth within claim 1, wherein the first diaphragm ismovable to a position that the first diaphragm does not engage the firstwall and the second diaphragm is movable to a position that the seconddiaphragm does not engage the second wall.
 13. The apparatus as setforth within claim 12, wherein, with the first diaphragm in the positionthat the first diaphragm does not engage the first wall and with thesecond diaphragm in the position that the second diaphragm does notengage the second wall, transmission of the pressure signal between thefirst fluid in the first passageway and the second fluid in the secondpassageway through the third fluid bound between the first and seconddiaphragms is permitted.
 14. A method for controlling passage of apressure signal, the method comprising: providing an apparatus forcontrolling passage of a pressure signal, the apparatus comprising: afirst passageway for a first fluid therein; a second passageway for asecond fluid therein; a chamber interposed between the first and secondpassageways, the chamber being partially bounded by a first walladjacent a junction of the first passageway to the chamber and a secondwall adjacent a junction of the second passageway to the chamber, thefirst wall being contoured as a concave shape as viewed in cross-sectionand the second wall being contoured as a concave shape as viewed incross-section; a first, movable diaphragm located across a junction ofthe first passageway and the chamber, the first diaphragm being movableto plural positions including a position with the first diaphragmpressed against the first wall; a second, movable diaphragm locatedacross a junction of the second passageway and the chamber, the seconddiaphragm being movable to plural positions including a position withthe second diaphragm pressed against the second wall, the second fluidengaging one side of the second diaphragm; a third fluid, the first andsecond diaphragms bounding the third fluid there between and interposedbetween the first and second passageways at the chamber; and a devicefor varying a volume of the third fluid bound between the first andsecond diaphragms and interposed between the first and secondpassageways at the chamber, a variation of the volume of the third fluidmoving the first and second diaphragms, the device including a movablemember and a reservoir in fluid communication with the third fluid boundbetween the first and second diaphragms, and the movable member beingmovable to vary the volume of the reservoir; and moving the movablemember sufficiently to increase the volume of the reservoir to remove asufficient portion of the third fluid bound between the first and seconddiaphragms from the chamber to cause the first and second diaphragms tobe pressed against the first and second walls, respectively.
 15. Themethod as set forth within claim 14, wherein the first and seconddiaphragms pressed against the first and second walls, respectively,prohibits passage of a pressure signal between the first fluid in thefirst passageway and the second fluid in the second passageway throughthe third fluid bound between the first and second diaphragms.
 16. Themethod as set forth within claim 14, including connecting the secondpassageway to a pressure sensor and the second fluid is for transmissionof pressure signals to the pressure sensor via the second passageway.17. The method as set forth within claim 16, wherein the method controlspassage of a plurality of pressure signals.
 18. The method as set forthwithin claim 16, wherein the step of providing an apparatus includesproviding that each of the first and second diaphragms are at leastpartially flexible.
 19. The method as set forth within claim 16, whereinthe step of providing an apparatus includes providing that the firstwall is contoured as a spheroid shape and the second wall is contouredas a spheroid shape.
 20. The method as set forth within claim 14,wherein the step of providing an apparatus includes providing that themovable member of the device includes at least one of a piston or abladder.